Work

A systematic review of dietary changes after migration in women: a focus on schizophrenia

Year: 2025

Type: review

Abstract: Introduction The impact of migration on cardiovascular risk factors have been reported to be gender-specific. Obesity and cardiovascular disease are increased in those who migrate to Western countries. Objectives Our aim is to investigate changes in the dietary habits of women after migration, especially in schizophrenia women. Methods A systematic review was performed in PubMed, Scopus and PsycINFO databases from inception to October 2024 according to the PRISMA statement. Search terms: (diet OR food OR “dietary acculturation”) AND migration AND women. Studies were included if they were focused on dietary changes after migration in women. In a second step, we conducted electronic searches to find additional papers on schizophrenia. Results A total of 2046 records were screened, of which 36 studies were included. (1) Socio-clinical scenarios of migration: a)Latin-American (n=5), b)African (n=7), c)Asian (n=17), Europe (n=2). Results: Weight gain after migration to developed countries, reduced dietary diversity and limited access to culturally appropriate foods are common (poor traditional-food trajectories). Early stages of migration are critical. Model of dietary transition during pregnancy (3 stages) and risk of gestational diabetes. (2) Transnational migration (rural-urban, n=5). Indian women had higher intakes of both fruit and vegetables and fat. Migration from rural-to-urban and urban-to-urban areas was associated with obesity risk. Exception: rural migrants to Mongolia’s capital maintaining traditional lifestyles. Few studies focus on women with schizophrenia. Conclusions The dietary habits of migrant women may have implications for future chronic disease risk, particularly for those with schizophrenia. Early culturally sensitive weight-loss interventions for migrant women are recommended. Key-words Migration; Diet; Dietary acculturation; Schizophrenia; Women. Disclosure of Interest None Declared

Source: European Psychiatry

DOI: 10.1192/j.eurpsy.2025.1464